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Office of the General Counsel

Rebecca KapustaGeneral Counsel

The Office of General Counsel is the statewide legal office for the Department of Children and Families. It provides legal advice and representation to all of the Department’s programs, institutions and administrative staff throughout Florida. The lawyers of the Office of General Counsel provide legal counsel to the Secretary, management and all Department employees through 16 locations. The Office also gives advice regarding the Department to the Legislature, Governor, Cabinet members, the Court system, and other state and local governmental agencies. Our lawyers have expertise in the following areas, among others:

Health and Human Services

Contracts

Litigation

Constitutional and Statutory Law

Public Records and Sunshine

Ethics

Government Procurement

Administrative Procedures

Appeals

Human Resources

Legislation

The Office is proud to serve the citizens of Florida through the Department of Children and Families.

While this Office can advise citizens regarding the Department’s legal responsibilities and authority, it is prohibited by law from giving citizens private legal advice. Citizens seeking advice about their personal legal rights should seek counsel from a private attorney. If you do not know an attorney you should contact the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service, which may be contacted at (800) 342-8011.

On the other hand, should you have any legal questions regarding the responsibilities or the legal authority of the Department you may contact this Office at: